Cork Heritage Open Day 2017

Blackrock Castle was originally built on the Lee in 1582 by the citizens of Cork as a watch tower and fort to guard the river entrance against pirates and other invaders. In 1600 a round tower was constructed by the Elizabethan government at the request of the citizens of Cork to protect them from marauding pirates and other invaders.

Following a charter by James I in 1608, Blackrock Castle was handed over to the City of Cork. In 1722 the old tower was destroyed by fire and was rebuilt with an octagonal room topped with a cupola. The castle was used at this time as the Corporation banquet hall and for “throwing the dart”.

The original fortified structure which survives at lower levels at Blackrock Castle is today a National Monument and probably the oldest surviving structure still in use in the city of Cork.

Heritage Tours of Blackrock Castle

For Cork Heritage Open Day take a journey back in time to learn about the colourful history of the inner harbour fort & the later expansions that created Blackrock Castle of today. Your tour guide will bring you to the lower turret overlooking Cork harbour and down to the original fort and gunnery while regaling you with tales of the past and present.

Tickets and Tours

Tickets are FREE but booking is essential for this event and places are limited to 25 people on each of the four tours.